Chances are that you’ve probably seen Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the classic movie featuring Audrey Hepburn (as Holly Golightly) running around like a glorious tornado of pearls and forgetfulness. What you may not know is that the movie was based off of the book by Truman Capote (also the author of literature class staple In Cold Blood). Here are five reasons why you should ALSO read the book (before or after you watch the movie for the 50th time, your choice).
1. When you read the book, you actually (mostly) understand what’s happening.
Though it’s short, the book fleshes out the plot line and characters more than the movie allows time for. Not only do you discover about Holly’s past, but you also learn what the significance of Holly’s nameless cat is, as well as more about the narrator. The ending of the movie and the ending of the book differ in a few ways, however, and it’s interesting to see how they diverge.
2. The writing is good.
Capote isn’t known as a “literary genius” for nothing, and Breakfast proves how strong of a writer he can be (even if the narrator in Breakfast doesn’t enjoy quite as much dazzling literary success).
3. You begin to see just how much Hepburn’s movie-Holly and Capote’s book-Holly compliment each other.
While movie-Holly is awesome by herself, book-Holly is a resident badass from the first few pages, where she gets what she wants through sheer force of will and doesn’t let any person (though she may be using them for her own advantages) tie her down.
4. That Little Black Dress you probably wore downtown last Friday night? You can thank ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ for helping to popularize it.
Without the book, there would be no movie, and no black dress with pearls to go along with it.
5. Though the movie is arguably one of the most famous, well-recognized films that have ever been made, a lot of people don’t know there even IS a book.
The book is more obscure, but by reading it will give you an advantage next time you want to score points with that English professor you desperately want to impress…or the cute person reading in the corner at your next party.
Whether you’re out at a party or sitting at home watching TV, remember to do what Holly would, collegiettes, and enjoy your life to the fullest!
Photo Credit: 1